"This exhibition has showcased many fine products from Linyi and China. It not only serves as a platform for showcasing 'Made in China' products, but also provides an important opportunity for entrepreneurs from both countries to jointly explore expansion and enhance cooperation," said Jiang Wei, consul general of China in Almaty, Kazakhstan, during the 2nd China (Linyi) - Kazakhstan International Commodity Exhibition, which was held in Almaty, from May 15 to 17.

At the exhibition, a variety of products from Linyi impressed buyers, with booth representatives and staff busy promoting products and negotiating partnerships. A total of 112 premium product enterprises from Linyi brought their high-quality products to the exhibition, which covered an exhibition area of 2,000 square meters.

"This type of exhibition is new to Kazakhstan, and has been particularly well-received among the local people and businesses. The products on show at the exhibition are highly popular in the Kazakh market, and many enterprises have placed orders. Enthusiasm and interest in cooperation from Kazakh businesses are also very high. China is Kazakhstan's largest trading partner, and I believe that this exhibition will inject new impetus into the trade between Kazakhstan and the Shandong region," said Kanat Beisek, president of the Kazakhstan-China Trade Promotion Association.

"We participated in the first exhibition held last year, where we secured deals with several major clients. Now, we ship container loads of large trucks to Kazakhstan from China every month. Due to the clear results, we are back this year. As long as this exhibition continues, we will participate," said Zhou Xin, an employee of Shandong Jingpin Electric Vehicle Technology Co Ltd.

As the most developed country in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is relatively strong in heavy industry but has shortcomings in light industry, especially in small commodity sectors closely related to people's lives. There is significant complementarity in economic structure between Kazakhstan and Linyi. The local government and business associations supported the exhibition, inviting over 10,000 buyers, including many from Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries. 

According to official data, in 2024, the total import and export volume between Linyi and Kazakhstan reached 970 million yuan ($134.46 million).

"By organizing exhibitions, Linyi's high-quality products are brought to the international market, connecting with foreign wholesalers face-to-face to seize overseas orders," said Luo Xiaoxiao, deputy director of the Foreign Trade Division of the Linyi Municipal Bureau of Commerce.